Where There's a Will by Judy Penz Sheluk

"Where There’s a Will" is the third book in the Glass Dolphin Mystery series by Judy Penz Sheluk and the first book of

hers that I have read. I found her writing easy to read and the story was enjoyable, with the mystery developed sufficiently to keep my interest throughout the story. This book, while #3, is good as a stand alone title. The amount of backstory that is provided was sufficient for this reader.

Arabella Carpenter and Emily Garland are partners at the Glass Dolphin Antiques shop. As the story begins, Glass Dolphin Antiques is holding an “Appraisal Day” at the shop. As it turns out, Arabella is the only partner working and appraising as her partner Emily is out house hunting with her fiancée (looking at the old Hadley house). The event is a great success; however, there is one customer who hung around the shop all day watching Arabella appraise each item presented, which at first was flattering but as the day wore on, kind of creepy. As the final customer, this woman (Faye Everett) indicates that she wishes to obtain information about the item she has...a “Witch’s Bottle”. As it turns out, not a valuable piece as it is not complete but it does prompt interesting discussions. I really enjoyed the history lesson that Arabella imparted with respect to this bottle and also the additional discussion that ensued about smudging. Very informative. As we find out, what Faye really wanted was for Arabella to ascertain whether an antique she found at the bottom of a box in her newly inherited property (yup - the Hadley house) was in fact a “daguerreotype” and have it appraised. Interest from multiple buyers for the Hadley House emerge (and yes Emily is one of them). A full appraisal of the contents of the home ensues with Arabella and her ex-husband Levon working together to complete the job. Surprisingly, while going through the house they find another will! Interesting turn of events. I will say no more as the story is for each reader to enjoy.

I found the characters had depth and the storyline had just the right amount of intrigue. I always get

a kick out of reading a story where they mention locations near my home town and as such, I enjoyed the visit to Toronto (Union Station) in addition to the historical tidbits passed on to the reader. The bad guy, the host of House Haunters, had just the right amount of bad, so I hoped that he would not get the house. Time (and continued reading on your part) will tell.

All in all a well-rounded mystery, with humor, snooping (always love that as it is what makes the mystery), a bit of a love angle(?), good writing, and interesting characters. Makes this reader want to go and get the first two books in the series!